California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis May Help Reducing Drinking Consumption
New research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry proposes that embracing a “California sober” approach could significantly help individuals reduce their drink consumption.
The Study and Bar Lab Setting
A team of Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Subjects had the option to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was repeated on three occasions with different tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity.
“We wanted to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” stated the principal investigator.
Key Findings and Impact on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a notable reduction in drink consumption after participants used cannabis:
- Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC cannabis.
- Reduction was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the placebo.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in cannabis consumption, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a historic low, with numerous individuals turning to substitutes like marijuana.
It is important to note that 40% of study participants met the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
Although cannabis might be a possible alternative to heavy drinking, researchers warn that more study is required.
“We’re not ready to advise people in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and substitute marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher noted.